University of Nebraska–Lincoln

College Sustainability Report Card 2009

In April 2008, the university released a sustainability report outlining campus priorities and initiatives. The Chancellor's Commission on Environmental Sustainability, which is comprised of faculty, staff, and students, is developing recommended sustainability practices and policies for UNL.

The university has taken measures to upgrade efficiency by centralizing its heating and cooling systems, upgrading lighting fixtures, and installing occupancy sensors and roof insulation to reduce energy consumption by utilities. An energy engineer is responsible for actively pursuing conservation initiatives in campus operations.

UNL's Sustainable Food Project was started in 2005 and is designed to serve meals that feature Nebraska's sustainably produced goods. The university purchases foods from approximately 60 local farms and in-state food manufacturers. Menus also offer pasture-raised beef, free-range chicken, naturally raised lamb and pork, and organic produce and grains.

The university will seek LEED certification for all new construction projects. The International Quilt Studies Center and Museum, as well as the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center will be UNL’s first buildings constructed using LEED standards. Five new renovation projects will also meet LEED certification standards.

Dining services encourages student involvement in the Sustainable Food Project. Student groups, including Roots and Shoots and Emerging Green Builders, work on campus sustainability projects. In January 2008, a group of UNL students planned the events for Focus the Nation, a collaborative discussion on global warming.

Nebraska offers discounted bus passes to faculty and staff, while the purchase of a parking permit makes students, faculty, and staff eligible for a free bus pass. Carpoolers receive priority reserved parking and an on-campus bike shop offers bike rentals and maintenance service.

The university and the University of Nebraska Foundation make a list of endowment holdings available to all members of the school community, including faculty, staff, students, and alumni. This information is sent to individuals upon request.

The university and the University of Nebraska Foundation aim to optimize investment return and are exploring, but not currently invested in, renewable energy funds or similar investment vehicles.

The university and the University of Nebraska Foundation ask that its investment managers handle the details of proxy voting.